Students at Louisiana State University-Shreveport benefit from exceptionally low costs and earnings that exceed expectations for similar institutions, making higher education accessible without excessive debt.
The university provides meaningful opportunities for first-generation students and transfers while maintaining affordability that works for Louisiana families.
Louisiana State University-Shreveport serves as an accessible regional public university that prioritizes affordability over premium outcomes. While the institution doesn't rank among the top performers nationally for earnings, it delivers meaningful value through exceptionally low net prices and manageable debt loads that make higher education attainable for Louisiana families. Nearly 38% of students receive Pell Grants, and over 40% are first-generation college students, reflecting the university's commitment to serving students who might not otherwise access four-year degrees.
The university's graduates earn a median of $47,477 ten years after enrollment, which places LSU-Shreveport in the lower portion of national earnings distributions but still represents solid returns given the minimal upfront investment required. What makes the institution particularly noteworthy is its ability to deliver earnings beyond expectations—graduates earn about $4,038 more than similar students at comparable institutions, suggesting effective support systems and career preparation despite resource constraints.
As a medium-sized public university in northwestern Louisiana, LSU-Shreveport fills an important regional role by providing affordable access to business, computer science, and general studies programs. For students who prioritize low debt and reasonable outcomes over premium earnings potential, the university offers a practical pathway to economic mobility without the financial stress that often accompanies higher education.
Louisiana State University-Shreveport offers a focused program portfolio that emphasizes practical, career-oriented fields. Computer Science stands out as the university's highest-earning program, with 24 graduates earning a median of $54,322 early in their careers—a strong outcome that demonstrates the program's effectiveness in preparing students for Louisiana's growing technology sector. This technical program provides some of the best financial returns available at the institution.
Business Administration represents the university's largest program with 81 graduates, reflecting strong regional demand for business skills. While early earnings around $32,770 are more moderate, the program's scale suggests consistent employer demand and reliable career pathways. General Studies, with 53 graduates earning approximately $30,047, serves students seeking flexible degree options or preparing for careers that value broad educational foundations.
The university's program mix reflects its regional mission and student population. Rather than competing with flagship universities in research-intensive fields, LSU-Shreveport focuses on accessible programs that lead directly to employment in northwestern Louisiana's economy. This practical approach serves students well by providing clear pathways to stable careers without requiring the extensive resources or selectivity associated with premium programs at larger institutions.
Louisiana State University-Shreveport graduates achieve moderate but meaningful long-term earnings outcomes. Ten years after enrollment, they earn a median of $47,477, which places the university below national averages but still represents solid returns given the low upfront investment required. More encouraging is that graduates earn about $4,038 more than similar students at comparable institutions, indicating that LSU-Shreveport provides effective career preparation and support that helps students outperform expectations despite resource limitations.
The university's strongest financial outcomes come from its Computer Science program, where 24 graduates earn a median of $54,322 early in their careers—well above the institutional average and competitive with many larger universities. Business Administration, the university's largest program with 81 graduates, produces more moderate early earnings around $32,770, while General Studies majors earn approximately $30,047. This pattern reflects a practical program mix focused on accessible fields that lead to stable employment, though students in technical disciplines like computer science see notably stronger financial outcomes.
While LSU-Shreveport may not produce the premium earnings seen at flagship universities, its graduates enter Louisiana's job market with manageable debt and realistic expectations. The university's focus on business, general studies, and select technical programs creates pathways to middle-class careers without the financial pressure that can accompany more expensive educational options.
Louisiana State University-Shreveport stands out nationally for its exceptional affordability across all income levels. Low-income students pay just $7,302 per year after aid, while middle-income families see annual costs of only $7,613—both figures well below national averages for public universities. Even high-income families pay a reasonable $14,034 annually, making LSU-Shreveport accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds without creating significant financial strain.
The university's debt structure reinforces its commitment to affordability. Typical graduates leave with $22,500 in federal student loan debt, a manageable amount given current interest rates and repayment options. Parent PLUS borrowing averages just $12,000, reflecting the university's low sticker prices and the fact that many families can cover costs through a combination of aid, work, and modest savings rather than heavy borrowing. This conservative debt approach helps ensure that students can pursue their education without taking on unsustainable financial obligations.
What makes LSU-Shreveport particularly sustainable is how its low costs align with realistic earnings expectations. While graduates may not achieve premium salaries, their modest debt loads mean that standard repayment remains comfortable for most borrowers. The university's approach prioritizes financial accessibility over prestige, creating a pathway to higher education that works for families who need to balance educational aspirations with practical budget constraints.
Louisiana State University-Shreveport Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
